Israeli Basketball Hall of Fame Inaugurated at Annual Federation Gala

The Israel Basketball Association officially inaugurated the Israeli Basketball Hall of Fame during its annual gala, themed 'Basketball, More Than a Game.' The first inductees include Tal Brody, Miki Berkovich, and Barry Leibowitz for the men's category, and Aviva Bales and Aluma Goren for the women's category. The Hall of Fame will be managed by a committee chaired by Yitzhak Peri, with plans to add new members annually.

During the event, the Association also launched its 'Friendship Fund,' designed to serve as an executive arm for social and community projects. Dan Halperin, chairman of the fund, stated that the initiative aims to leverage the basketball community to promote education, resilience, leadership, and equal opportunities across Israel.

Attendees heard a moving address from Naila Fakhreddin, mother of the late Alma, who was killed in the rocket strike in Majdal Shams. Fakhreddin is working to turn the memory of her daughter, who was a basketball player, into a legacy of peace and unity. Additionally, a panel discussion on leadership and excellence featured prominent figures including Deni Avdija, Oded Kattash, Ziv Shilon, and Shira Elyon.

Amos Frischman, chairman of the Israel Basketball Association, noted that these initiatives reflect a new spirit within the organization, aiming to honor the sport's history while fostering a better society. The event was hosted by the Harel Group, the primary sponsor of Israel's national basketball teams, at their GUTS innovation hub.